On Wednesday, 12 September 2012, the USGS Coalition honored Representatives Steven LaTourette (R-OH) and Betty McCollum (D-MN) with the Coalition’s 2012 Leadership Award. The awards were presented during the USGS Coalition’s annual reception on Capitol Hill.

The NSC Alliance is a member of the USGS Coalition. In addition to remarks by both Representatives, two senior Interior officials spoke. Lori Caramanian is the deputy assistant secretary for water and science at the Department of the Interior. Suzette Kimball, deputy director of the USGS, thanked the Representatives and the USGS Coalition for the years of effort they have given to elevating the profile of the USGS among policymakers.

“We are pleased to recognize Representatives LaTourette and McCollum for their sustained efforts to champion the scientific programs of the United States Geological Survey. Their leadership in Congress has helped increase awareness of the USGS,” stated Dr. Gropp. “Representatives McCollum and LaTourette clearly understand that USGS research in biology, geology, water and geography provides the American people with vitally important information every day. USGS research and information contribute to economic growth, improve the public health and safety, and enhance our ability to wisely manage our natural resources.”

Congressman LaTourette is serving his ninth term in the U.S. House of Representatives and represents Northeast Ohio’s 14th Congressional District. He serves on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, which oversees funding for the USGS and other Department of Interior programs. As a member of the subcommittee, LaTourette plays an important role in ensuring that the USGS has the resources it needs to provide the department and the nation with the scientific information required to make informed decisions. He emphasizes effective use of tax dollars in the management of these natural and cultural resources with a keen understanding that these resources also enhance economic development.

“I’m flattered by the award. I truly believe the only way we can protect our country’s greatest natural resources is to understand them better. It’s one of the reasons I’m such a huge fan of the USGS work and have been a proud supporter of it for these past 18 years in Congress,” states Congressman LaTourette.

Representative McCollum is serving her sixth term in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Minnesota’s 4th District. In 2000, Congresswoman McCollum made history as the second Minnesota woman elected to serve in Congress since statehood in 1858. She serves on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, which oversees funding for the USGS. Her strong support of USGS science to manage natural resources and improve clean energy technologies emphasizes her commitment to environmental stewardship and global economic competitiveness.

Representative McCollum attests, “It is an honor to be recognized by the U.S. Geological Survey Coalition for the work we do together to wisely manage America’s natural resources so that we can improve public health and grow our economy. Communities and businesses across our country rely on the scientific information USGS provides to make informed decisions. I will continue working with my Republican and Democratic colleagues in Congress to ensure USGS has the resources it needs to serve the American people.”